Generator Sizing
How Big a Generator Do You Need?
The right standby generator is the one matched to how you actually live. Here is how we think about sizing — and how to skip the math entirely with a free load calculation.
Understanding generator sizing
Generator size is measured in kilowatts (kW). A bigger number is not automatically better — an oversized unit costs more up front and runs inefficiently, while an undersized one trips during a storm when you need it most. The goal is to size the system to the loads you actually want to keep running when the grid goes down.
Two homes of the same square footage can need very different generators. A home with electric heat, a well pump, and two air conditioners draws far more than a gas-heated home running just the essentials. That is why we base every recommendation on a real load calculation — not a square-footage guess.
Three Common Profiles
Where Most Central Ohio Homes Land
These are starting points, not hard rules. Your fuel type, panel, and priorities shift the final number — which is exactly what the free assessment pins down.
Keeps the critical circuits alive — furnace blower, refrigerator, well pump, sump pump, lights, and outlets. Ideal if you mainly want to ride out an outage safely without spoilage or a flooded basement.
Powers nearly everything in a typical home, including central air and most appliances at once. The most popular choice for Licking County families who want life to feel normal during an outage.
Built for larger homes with electric heat, multiple AC units, a hot tub, EV charging, or a home office that cannot go dark. Runs heavy simultaneous loads without managing what is on.
Kohler Residential Lineup
Generator Size by What It Powers
A quick reference for the most common Kohler home standby tiers — matched to the kind of home and the loads each one comfortably carries.
| Generator Size | Best For | What It Typically Powers |
|---|---|---|
| 14 kW | Smaller homes; essential loads | The basics, plus a television, water heater, and a heating & A/C unit |
| 20 kW | Average Central Ohio homes | Most major appliances — the entire kitchen, most electronic devices, and heating & A/C |
| 26 kW | Whole-home coverage | Your entire home, including heating & A/C, sump pump, and major appliances |
| 48 kW | Large homes & heavy loads | Everything in your home with 200-amp service |
Coverage varies with your home's specific loads and fuel type. We confirm the exact size with a free on-site load calculation.
Ballpark Wattage
What Common Appliances Draw
Running watts are what a device uses continuously; many motors briefly draw more at startup. Use this to get a feel for your home — we handle the exact numbers in the assessment.
| Appliance / System | Approx. Running Watts |
|---|---|
| Central air conditioner (3-ton) | 3,500 W |
| Electric range / oven | 8,000 W |
| Electric water heater | 4,500 W |
| Electric clothes dryer | 5,400 W |
| Furnace blower (gas heat) | 800 W |
| Well pump (1 HP) | 2,000 W |
| Sump pump | 1,050 W |
| Refrigerator / freezer | 700 W |
| Lights & general outlets | 1,500 W |
| EV charger (Level 2) | 7,200 W |
Figures are typical estimates for planning only. Your actual loads depend on your specific equipment.
Skip the Math
Let Us Size It for You — Free
You do not need to add up watts on a calculator. We come out, review your panel and priorities, and recommend the right-sized system at no cost. It is the most accurate way to size a generator — and there is no obligation.
Still have questions? Read our generator FAQs for Central Ohio homeowners, or explore your backup power options.